Atlanta United begin their MLS odyssey tonight when 55,000 supporters pack into Bobby Dodd Stadium to see the Five Stripes take on the Red Bulls. While the beginning of the club is fresh and new with seemingly a clean slate, there will inevitably be issues with incidents happening in the stands.
It happens at literally every club eventually. It will happen at Atlanta United matches. Hopefully they are minimal and off a small scale. To prepare you for such instances, Club President Darren Eales has penned a letter to the supporters to inform them of protocol and consquences. His letter is as follows and is taken from the team’s official website:
Dear Supporters,
As we prepare to begin our first season in Major League Soccer, we would like to take this opportunity to communicate our expectations around fan behavior.
Our club feels very fortunate to have such an incredible, passionate fan base which has already set records for an MLS expansion team. We are also very fortunate to live in Atlanta, a diverse and thriving city which we are all proud to embrace and represent.
As such, we expect that fans will be respectful in their behavior (including chants, language, and conduct) and will comply with our safety standards per the MLS fan code of conduct. Inappropriate and offensive chants, foul language, and aggressive or violent behavior will not be tolerated and will be dealt with swiftly.
Please be advised that if you are found to be participating in any of these behaviors, you are subject to removal. If you are near fans using offensive language, please advise stadium security or club staff immediately.
We appreciate your compliance with these standards, which are in place to ensure that all of our fans are able to enjoy Atlanta United matches and events in a positive, inclusive and safe environment.
Thank you for working together with us as we prepare to Unite and Conquer!
Darren Eales
President, Atlanta United